How to Travel with In-Laws

Many people often picture travel idealistically, with visions of serene mountaintops, the sunset over the ocean, or a pink umbrella in the margarita they just ordered at the swim-up bar. Unfortunately, when people picture traveling with the in-laws, those ideal images are replaced with natural disasters and impending doom. Spending quality time with the in-laws doesn't have to be horrible--here are some techniques for peaceful family travel.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Start with an upbeat attitude. Convince yourself that this trip with the in-laws will be exciting, fun and a great opportunity to hang out as a family. Too many people go into family vacations with the wrong mindset. You'll be surprised how much better you feel if you start positive.
2. Give space. The biggest mistake families make is to cut costs by booking one hotel room, traveling in one small car or reserving two rooms on the cruise ship right next to one another. When you give everyone ample space to move around (both physically and emotionally), moods will be brighter longer. If you and your mother-in-law each have your own room, you both have a refuge from family tension. If those two rooms are on separate floors so you can't hear each other screaming, that's even better.
3. Compromise. Keep everyone's interests in mind on trips. When traveling with people of a different generation (your in-laws), consider the likes and dislikes of everyone in the group. While getting to the dance club may be a priority for you, getting to the cruise ship's bingo night might be a must for your father-in-law. Compromise keeps everyone happy.
4. Go out of your way to make special accommodations for your in-laws. This doesn't mean that you have to book them the honeymoon suite or buy them a fancy dinner every night. Small gestures will go a long way toward making it a memorable trip. Make sure they have extra towels during a hotel stay or make a point to ask if they would like to stop for food or a bathroom break during a road trip. These thoughtful gestures will not go unnoticed.
5. Allow time for sightseeing or side trips that involve just your in-laws and your spouse/partner. Not only will this please the in-laws by giving them time alone with their precious son or daughter, but this also gives you free time. A win-win situation for everyone.

Tips & Warnings

• Most in-laws react positively to a son- or daughter-in-law who can be completely comfortable and relaxed in their presence. It doesn't always seem like this is the case, but being yourself will go a long way toward a positive relationship with in-laws, especially while traveling.
• Never patronize an in-law while traveling. Many rocky relationships are the result of the son- or daughter-in-law taking a condescending or patronizing tone when interacting with their spouse's parents. Older generations absolutely hate to be treated like children and they aren't big fans of young know-it-alls, either. Create situations during your trip that afford an in-law the opportunity to teach you something.